Poetry Power to the People – Edinburgh Central Library supports new writing talent

Edinburgh Central Library is launching a new initiative to boost the city’s poetry powers. The monthly group will provide free advice and a friendly environment for new and more experienced writers to develop their talents.

Stewart Sanderson, the Library Advisor supporting the group, is keen to dispel some myths about poetry: “Poetry is often perceived as a somewhat solitary pursuit, with stereotypes of lonely poets scribbling in garrets or wandering, enraptured, across the inspiring isolation of some rugged landscape.

“In reality, while solitude has a part to play in the creative process, poetry is an intensely social art. For those interested in writing poems, the chance to meet up regularly with like-minded people and discuss their creative work – as well as the poets who excite them as readers – can be invaluable.”

The group’s guiding spirit will be accessibility and encouragement. “Our aim is to provide a welcoming, supportive space in which people can come together to share their own poems and receive responses to them from their peers. We hope that this will help people in Edinburgh and the surrounding area to write poems and become more involved in their local community. With the emphasis on enabling people to explore their creativity, we’re equally keen to hear from those who’ve just started writing, as well as those who’ve been doing it for years!”

The group offers participants the chance to experiment in all forms of poetry from rondel to rap. Stewart explains: “Poetry is a very broad art form, offering something for everyone and embracing many different approaches. So, no matter what your goals for your poetry might be, this group is definitely for you.”

Edinburgh Central Library’s new poetry group will start up, on a regular basis, from this month on – with the first session meeting at 18:00 on Tuesday 20 November 2018 in the Library Boardroom, George IV Bridge.

More information and details of how to register for your free place at the next session can be found at the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/central-library-poetry-group-tickets-51752388788